NEW ORLEANS – The Audubon Zoo welcomed the arrival of a 27-year-old female Western Lowland gorilla, adding to its population of the critically endangered species.
The gorilla, named Alafia, moved to the zoo last month from the Los Angeles Zoo, which was her home for nine years. Her name means “peace” in the language of the Yoruba community in Nigeria.
Alafia is currently behind the scenes as animal care providers and veterinary staff ensure that she has a smooth transition.
Alafia is the latest addition to the zoo’s gorilla troop, which includes, Okpara, a silverback male from Franklin Park Zoo, Tumani, an 11-year-old female Western Lowland gorilla from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Praline, a female who was born at Audubon Zoo 22 years ago.
